Double the fun in seventh installment of popular run, with dedicated days for competitive and fun runners

(Centre, on stage) Guest-of-Honour Mrs Claire Nazar, Council Member, Families for Life, flags off the Safari Zoo Run Fastest Kid Race. Flanking her are Mr Lee Meng Tat, CEO, Wildlife Reserves Singapore and Ms Isabel Cheng, CMO, Wildlife Reserves Singapore. Mrs Nazar and her family later joined the 6,000-strong crowd for the 6km Safari Zoo Fun Run, in a show of sporting fun and family bonding. PHOTO CREDIT: WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

Singapore, 9 February 2015 — A human herd of more than 9,000 dashed, loped and strode down Mandai’s lush corridors in this weekend’s Safari Zoo Run 2015, which was conceived seven years ago to commemorate Ah Meng, Singapore Zoo’s iconic Sumatran orang utan.

For the first time ever, Safari Zoo Run was held over two days. Over 3,000 avid runners took on the 12km or 6km Safari Zoo Challenge on Saturday, while a 6,000 strong crowd of enthusiastic participants enjoyed the Fun Run route through Night Safari and Singapore Zoo at a more leisurely pace this morning.

Families taking part in the Safari Zoo Run Stroller Walk slowed their pace to get a closer look at Singapore Zoo’s giraffes during Safari Zoo Run 2015. PHOTO CREDIT: WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

Another new feature this year was the roaring finale that awaited Sunday’s runners — the family-friendly Safari Zoo Run Carnival, which brought together exciting stage acts, a bazaar, educational stations and animal photography with some of the parks’ animal stars.

Safari Zoo Run is dedicated to the memory of Ah Meng, the zoo’s iconic Sumatran orangutan, who died of old age in February 2008. A part of the proceeds from the event will benefit the endangered wildlife under the care of Night Safari and Singapore Zoo.

As participants of Safari Zoo Run’s Fun Run stopped to take photos of the orang utans, the cheeky primates had a vertical race of their own, to their treetop playground. Safari Zoo Run is dedicated to the memory of Ah Meng, the zoo’s iconic Sumatran orangutan, who died of old age in February 2008. PHOTO CREDIT: WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

New system deemed to provide higher degree of safety; Overhaul to be implemented in phases

Singapore, 15 December 2014 – Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS) will be phasing in the protected contact elephant management system for all elephants in Night Safari and Singapore Zoo over the next few years.

When fully in place, all staff training and interaction with elephants under the protected contact system will be conducted through a physical safety barrier. The protected contact management system is based on positive reinforcement where animals are motivated by rewards such as food.

The two parks will be among the first zoological institutions in Asia to implement the protected contact management system for all elephants in its collection. Among the modern zoo community, this method is currently deemed to be the safest way to manage elephants while ensuring proper animal care and welfare.

Dr Cheng Wen-Haur, Chief Life Sciences Officer, WRS, said, “The decision to adopt the protected contact management system was made after an internal review by our elephant managers and healthcare experts, who found that this system of management offers a safer work environment for the elephant keepers. Importantly, the new system will continue to allow our keepers access to the elephants for their daily care, although separated by a safety barrier.”

The complete implementation of the protected contact system will take three to five years as it will involve major redesign and construction of the elephant exhibits, back-of-house facilities as well as re-training of our elephants and elephant keepers.

The first phase of moving towards the protected contact system will be the cessation of programmes involving direct visitor contact with the elephants. From 5 January 2015, elephant rides and other activities where elephants are taken out of their exhibits will cease at the zoo. This is to allow the elephants to spend more time in the exhibits and to socialise among themselves.

Visitors to Singapore Zoo will still be able to enjoy the Elephants at Work and Play show (available twice daily at 11.30am and 3.30pm), and take part in elephant feeding sessions which happens after each show.

Dr Cheng continued, “Providing meaningful interactive opportunities with our animals is one of the most valuable services we bring to our visitors. Our new elephant exhibits will be designed to enable up-close encounters, and give us the chance to offer new behind-the-scenes experiences.”

Birth of two more cubs makes it a dozen babies in total for prolific Asian lion pair;

Only 300 Asian lions remain in India’s Gir Forest, the only place where they are found in the wild

Baring its full set of small but sharp teeth, this feisty little Asian lion cub is all set to roar into the new year, as part of the pride of 13 Asian lions that calls Night Safari home. The as-yet-unnamed cub is one of two Asian lion babies born on 27 September 2014. Photo credits: Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

Singapore, 9 December 2014 – As a sweet finale to Night Safari’s 20th anniversary this year, endangered Asian lion residents Khapat and Amba gifted the park with two Asian lion cubs, making them the 11th and 12th babies to be born to their prolific parents.

Born on 27 September, the tawny male and female pair was sexed, microchipped and given a round of vaccinations during their veterinary checkup in late November. Visitors can look out for them in upcoming months, when they will be introduced to their older siblings in the Asian lion exhibit along Night Safari’s tram route. For now, they are spending time bonding with mom in the cubbing den at a back of house facility.

One of the newest members of Night Safari’s Asian lion pride bares its teeth to demonstrate its mettle. The cub, one of two born on 27 September 2014, is currently bonding with mom in a back of house facility, but will be introduced to the Asian lion exhibit along Night Safari’s tram route in upcoming months. Photo credits: Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

Dr Cheng Wen-Haur, Chief Life Sciences Officer, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, said: “It’s always heartening to welcome new babies into our collection, especially at a time when many of the world’s wildlife species are being threatened as a direct result of human-related activities. These births are a valuable addition to an assurance colony of Asian lions under human care, and will help to safeguard against extinction in the wild.”

Dr Ng Weng Yan, veterinarian, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, holds the male cub still to take its weight, as part of a health check. The cub weighed close to 8kg at two months, while his sister is a little lighter at approximately 6.8kg. Aside from being sexed for the first time, the cubs were also vaccinated and microchipped for identification.Photo credits: Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

The Asian lion is a separate subspecies from the African lion. Listed as endangered under the IUCN* Red List, it is smaller in size and sports a less significant mane compared to its African cousin. Most of the wild Asian lion population is found in India’s Gir Forest, a protected sanctuary where about 300 of these magnificent animals roam. Additionally, close to 340 Asian lions live in zoos. Night Safari has 13 lions in its pride, the fourth largest collection under human care.

Night Safari hopes that it will be able to contribute to Asian lion numbers, both wild and under human care, through its captive breeding programme. To date, Night Safari has successfully bred twelve Asian lion cubs, one of which was sent to Denmark’s Aalborg Zoo last June, as part of an animal exchange programme.

Award-winning Night Safari, the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals, officially celebrated her 20th anniversary in May this year.

Seventh installment of popular run will be double the fun, with dedicated days

for competitive and fun runners over the weekend of 7 and 8 February 2015

Photo Credit: WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

Singapore, 3 December 2014 – Safari Zoo Run 2015 will be an even wilder affair compared to previous years, with activities spread across two days for the first time in the run’s seven-year history.

Next year’s run will see competitive runners racing on 7 February while 8 February will be the fun run where the runners will also get the opportunity to participate in a ‘Best Dressed Runner’ contest and get a chance to enjoy a whole host of carnival festivities.

The races, both competitive and fun, will transport runners past animal exhibits through meandering paths lined by greenery in Night Safari and Singapore Zoo.

Safari Zoo Run was conceived to commemorate Singapore Zoo’s famous matriarch and one of Singapore’s most adored personalities — Ah Meng the Sumatran orang utan. The iconic personality died of old age in February 2008.

Photo Credit: WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

Avid runners can look forward to competitive races such as the 12km or 6km Safari Zoo Challenge on 7 February. The top three winners in each of the competitive categories will stand to win prizes worth up to $300.

Little ones between 4-8 years of age can encourage their parents to sign up for the 2.8km Parent & Child Run, while kids between 8-12 years can take part in the 2.8km Fastest Kid race. Families looking to bond over a healthy walk amidst nature can enjoy a more leisurely pace with the 6km Safari Zoo Fun Run. All family-friendly activities are scheduled for 8 February.

For the first time in the run’s history, fun runners will be able to enjoy a Safari Zoo Run Carnival after their race, where festivities, such as a bazaar, mascots’ meet and greet sessions, fun fair stations, educational stations, and exciting performances await.

Each participant will receive an exclusive dri-fit Safari Zoo Run singlet or T-shirt (worth $24.90) and other attractive goodies including discounted admission to Night Safari or a chance to stroll through River Safari in the evening. In addition, all runners will walk away with an exclusive animal-motif finisher medal and a one-day entry to Singapore Zoo on the day of the run.

Early bird registration is now open until 31 December 2014. For more information, log on to www.safarizoorun.com.sg. Part of the proceeds from the Safari Zoo Run will go towards the care of threatened animals at Night Safari and Singapore Zoo.

Details at a glance

Dates and times : Safari Zoo Challenge

7 February 2015 (Saturday)

4.00pm – 7.00pm

Safari Zoo Fun Run

8 February 2015 (Sunday)

Races : 9.00am – 12.00pm

Carnival : 10.00am – 3.00pm

Venue : Night Safari and Singapore Zoo

80 Mandai Lake Road

Singapore 729826

Race Categories

* Child defied as 3-12 years old

** Free race participation for children below 3 years old. No runners’ entitlement for children below 3 years.

Image 1: The enchanting ensemble of MYSTICA inhabitants are waiting to welcome you to Night Safari this year end. This year, the park’s signature event will beckon guests to go on a MYSTICA Quest to collect multi-coloured wristbands in return for a glittery reward. MYSTICA will happen every Friday and Saturday night, from 21 November to 20 December.Photo Credit: Wildlife Reserves Singapore

Singapore, 18 Nov 2014 –MYSTICA, the signature event of Night Safari, returns once again with an enchanting ensemble of wild mystical characters to light up the night.

Visitors to Night Safari will step into a wonderland of dazzling lights as they enter the park. There, they will be met by the mysterious and magical Island Keeper, who will encourage them to go on a MYSTICA Quest which will have them navigating challenges and solving puzzles to collect wristbands. Along the way, curious creatures will guide them. Be prepared to come face to face with the Ravishing Raven, the most divine of the MYSTICA inhabitants; the ebullient Jumparoo, with his springy dance steps; and the scintillating Slithery Snake, with her shimmery moves.

Image 2: MYSTICA’s most divine inhabitant, the Ravishing Raven is ever ready to take selfies with guests who approach him. This year, Night Safari’s signature event will beckon guests to go on a MYSTICA Quest to collect multi-coloured wristbands in return for a glittery reward.Photo Credit: Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

When visitors have collected all the multi-coloured wristbands and completed their MYSTICA Quest, they will be rewarded with a sparkly surprise. The first 200 guests who do so every event night will receive a glittery gift.

Tertiary students 17 years and above enjoy four adult admission tickets for the price of three for onsite purchases only. Other terms and conditions apply. More details are available at nightsafari.com.sg/mystica

Image 3: A young Night Safari guest gleefully poses for a photo with MYSTICA’s Golden Birds, with their glistening feathers. MYSTICA will happen every Friday and Saturday night, from 21 November to 20 December.Photo Credit: Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

Join us for an exhilarating time at Night Safari this year-end with MYSTICA, where the nighttime wilderness comes alive.

Details

Dates: 21, 22, 28, 29 Nov and 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 Dec (Fri and Sat)

Time: 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Venue: Night Safari (start your quest at the Entrance Plaza)

Fee: Festivities at the entrance are free but usual admission of $39 (adult) and $25 (child 3-12 years) applies for those entering the park

Singapore, 23 May 2014 – The world’s first zoo for nocturnal animals, Singapore’s Night Safari, marked its 20th Anniversary with an evening celebration graced by the Guest of Honour who also officiated the park opening in 1994, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.

“Night Safari is a home-grown attraction that has gained a reputation on the world’s stage for the unique, immersive wildlife experience we provide our visitors. It is a park where Singaporeans love to take their foreign visitors to at night, and has been so for the last 20 years,” said Ms Claire Chiang, Chairman, Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

Night Safari was conceptualised by the same visionaries who created the critically acclaimed Singapore Zoo. Since opening on 26 May 1994, the park provides local residents and tourists an insight into the mystery of the tropical jungle at night by displaying a wide range of nocturnal animals in natural settings, and also filled a critical void in night-time attractions in Singapore.

The late Dr Ong Swee Law, founder and Executive Chairman of Singapore Zoo, in his project proposal for Night Safari wrote, “Nothing like the Night Safari can be found anywhere else in the world: it is truly unique.” He also highlighted that it makes good sense to view zoo animals at night since 90% of tropical mammals (excluding primates) are nocturnal, coupled with the fact that with regular sunsets occurring around 7.30pm and cool nights, Singapore is an ideal geographical location for a night zoo.

Today, Night Safari stands at the forefront of wildlife conservation, adopting innovative approaches to conservation science, partnership and research. The park opened the world’s first Sunda pangolin exhibit, and successfully bred the endangered species native to Singapore.

Ms Chiang said, “Beyond being a must-see recreational destination, we strive for excellence in wildlife conservation and have over the 20 years been successful in captive breeding of endangered species like the native Sunda pangolin, Malayan tapir, and Asian elephant.”

Over the past 20 years, Night Safari has constantly been renewing and rejuvenating its animal collection and product offerings to improve visitor experience. Notably, in 2003 the park launched the Creatures of the Night Show in a new amphitheater, and the Thumbuakar fire performance just two years later.

To commemorate Night Safari’s 20th Anniversary, the park will officially introduce a pair of white lions in addition to officially launching two new exhibits featuring Asiatic black bears and Malayan tigers that would be the finale to the park’s 35-minute tram experience.

Visitors to the park in the month of June will enjoy the 20th Anniversary festivities, which include energising fire performances by the wildly popular Thumbuakar group, talented shadow cutters, and glittery face-painters that help bring out the mystery of the night.

Night Safari, the world’s first zoo for nocturnal animals, celebrated its 20th anniversary. Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, who officiated the park’s opening in 1994, graced the event and took a ride on the tram.

Visitors who enter the Safari Gate (at Suntec City or Singapore Flyer) will find themselves in the immersive world of wildlife that the Mandai attractions are famous for, with credit to the beautiful rainforest-themed interiors created by WRS landscape architects. From the holding area, visitors are ushered into the premium Rhino coach, which will take them directly to WRS’ parks in Mandai.

“Conceived jointly by WRS and DUCK & HiPPO, Safari Gate is a game changer, a departure from the current market offering of fixed-time group tours. It puts control back in the hands of the visitors. With hourly departures to the parks, 10 trips a day, visitors get to tour at their own time and pace. It’s free and easy, no more fixed timing or itinerary,” said Mr James Heng, Chief Duckie, DUCK & HiPPO.

Mr Lee Meng Tat, Chief Executive Officer, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, said, “Wildlife Reserves Singapore is constantly looking for ways to enhance visitor experience in our parks; and with Safari Gate, we are moving a step beyond our parks’ boundaries to enhance the transport touchpoint for our visitors. We seek to provide a seamless and convenient transition for them to get from the city to Night Safari, River Safari, and Singapore Zoo, and back.”

Ms Ranita Sundramoorthy, Director of Attractions, Dining and Retail, Singapore Tourism Board said, “Safari Gate is an excellent example of how industry players can come together to find synergies and collaborate creatively to enhance the visitor experience. The Singapore Tourism Board welcomes more of such partnerships.”

Safari Gate was officially launched today by Mr James Heng and Mr Lee Meng Tat. As part of the launch, a group of special guests from the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore (MINDS) were among the first to experience this premium service, and to enjoy an afternoon at River Safari.

Safari Gate allows visitors flexibility to start their tour at any time. With hourly departures from the city to the parks from as early as 8.30am and the last returning coach at 10:30pm, there are more then 10 trips per day to choose from. As an added service, DUCK & HiPPO provides free transfer from city hotels to the two Safari Gates.

Visitors are also free to tour at their own pace, and can make the most of their time at the parks without being tied down to a specific itinerary or fixed time departure.

Along the way, on-board entertainment gives visitors an insight into each park, and allows them to plan their visit prior to their arrival. The 45-minute Rhino coach to Mandai is no longer a mundane bus ride. It is a prelude to a wild adventure. More information about Safari Gate is available at www.safarigate.com.